A Perfect Circle occupies a fascinating space somewhere between alternative rock, progressive metal and psychedelic space music. On record, the combination works beautifully. The songs are atmospheric, layered and meticulously crafted, balancing heaviness with restraint and introspection. It is music that rewards concentration and repeated listening.
Which is perhaps why this headlining slot on one of Hellfest's massive stages feels slightly at odds with the material. The visuals, screens and animations are tasteful enough, but they cannot entirely compensate for the absence of intimacy. These songs seem designed for darkness, enclosed spaces and audiences willing to surrender themselves patiently to the experience rather than demand instant gratification. Under the open sky and in front of thousands of festivalgoers whose primary objective is often to celebrate, socialize and party, some of the subtler nuances inevitably struggle to travel.
None of this is a criticism of the band itself. Musically, A Perfect Circle delivers exactly what one would expect. The playing is precise, the sound excellent and the songs retain all of their haunting beauty. Yet one cannot shake the feeling that the ideal setting for this music lies elsewhere. Some bands conquer enormous festival stages by sheer force. A Perfect Circle invites listeners inward instead. That invitation is easier to accept in the dark.
TesseracT @ Main Stage 2 (Photos, setlist)
Point Mort @ Warzone (Photo)
Queensrÿche @ Main Stage 1 (Photos, review, setlist)
Stoned Jesus @ Valley Stage (Photos, review, setlist)
Bloodywood @ Main Stage 2 (Photos, setlist)
Accept @ Main Stage 1 (Photos, review, setlist)
Sepultura @ Main Stage 2 (Photos, review, setlist)
Helloween @ Main Stage 1 (Photos, review, setlist)
Opeth @ Main Stage 2 (Photos, review, setlist)
Iron Maiden @ Main Stage 1 (Photos, review, setlist)
DAY FOUR
Scour @ Temple Stage (Photos, review, setlist)
Eyehategod @ Valley Stage (Photos, review)
Six Feet Under @ Altar Stage (Photos, review, setlist)
Corrosion Of Conformity @ Valley Stage (Photos, review)
Possessed @ Altar Stage (Photos, setlist)
Agnostic Front @ Warzone - (Photos, setlist)
Acid Bath @Valley Stage (Photos, review, setlist)
Marduk @ Altar Stage (Photos, setlist)
Napalm Death @ Altar Stage (Photos, review, setlist)
Down @ Valley Stage (Photos, review, setlist)